Joy & Meditation – Opening Meditation

Joy plays a very special role in Buddhist meditation practice. The spontaneous arising of Joy marks an important stage in the progress of every meditator’s practice. Meditative Joy, often referred to as rapture, is one of the Seven Factors of Enlightenment taught by the Buddha. It is also a factor of deep Meditative Absorptions, and is distinguished from happiness or bliss, with which it is easily confused.

Master Culadasa explores what Joy really is, how it differs from happiness, and what makes it so important to the spiritual life. Learn where Joy comes from, how it can be cultivated on the cushion, and how discovering the Joy inherent in work and family life can improve the quality of your meditation practice.